A Beginner's Guide to RV Solar Panels

Everything you need to know about RV solar panels

Solar panels are a craze in the market right now. They are a great way to generate energy while still being environmentally friendly. That being said, there is some important information to know about solar panels as a RVer.

The difference between RV and Residential solar panels

RV solar panels are a lot like residential solar panels. The main difference is that RV solar panels are generally smaller. There are a few different types of RV solar panels that you can buy. Some solar panels can be smaller and are designed to be portable while others are a bit bigger and are mounted on the roof. There are also variations in size due to how much energy you will need. 

Unlike residential solar panels, don’t expect to be able to run all your appliances at once. Homes use a lot of power, but RVs aren’t built to be like that. Even with solar panels, RVs can only use so many appliances at once. Expect to have to turn off one appliance before using another.

How solar panels work

RV solar panels use energy from the sun and convert that energy into a battery. You will want a charge controller between the battery and the panel that keeps the battery from over-generating. An inverter is also needed to convert your DC electricity to AC electricity. That energy keeps your batteries powered up so you can use your appliances as needed. These parts can be brought separately, but we sell kits that include everything. And yes, It is common to get more than one solar panel. If you use your batteries a lot, another solar panel will help you keep your batteries charged. Our solar panel kits offer expansions so you can get more than one solar panel.

Why use solar panels?

Rv solar panels offer an environmentally friendly way to camp. If you are someone who enjoys camping without hook-ups (boondocking), solar panels are a great alternative to generators. Generators rely on a limited diesel, gas, or propane which can be inconvenient if you want to camp long term. They are also rather noisy and can be bad for the environment. Solar panels are a great way to generate power without the noise.

Types of solar panels we sell

There are multiple types of RV solar panels in the market. Brands that we carry are Zamp solar, Xantrex solar, Samlex solar, Go Power!, and Furrion Net-Zero. The prices can range from $400 to $1,300 depending on what you want. Call and ask if you are looking for a specific type. And don’t forget that every RV sales and repair has installation charges! 

So, are they worth it? If you plan to do a lot of RVing and boondocking, solar panels are a great option for you. They may be expensive, but they can save you money over a long time. Decide what you want from your camping experience before you decide on solar panels. We want to make your experience enjoyable, so we want to help you make your big decisions. Happy camping!